Stir frying is actually a Chinese cooking style in which raw ingredients are lightly stirred or mixed in a pan while being gently stirred or tossed in some wok until they become translucent and soft. The original technique originated in China and later on, in modern times, has been spread to the other regions of Asia as well as in the western world. It’s like soups in Western cooking style.
To prepare stir frying, the oil or cooking oil is heated first before adding any ingredients. This allows the natural oils in the ingredients to fully absorb into the oil. At the same time, the heat releases the aromatics. Those aromatics are actually the taste, the smell and the nutrients from the ingredients. These are all valuable to the cook. Properly used, these stir fry tools can produce some very tasty foods.
One of the most popular techniques for stir frying is the wok method. The wok is an ancient Chinese cooking vessel made of copper, bamboo or iron. Typically, you can see this vessel filled with water and placed over a flame. The fire is then gradually raised to full heat. The water is then brought to just below the boiling point, where it is naturally forced out into the air. This can take about thirty minutes depending on the ingredients.
Another stir fry method is done by using a stir bar. A wooden or metal stir fry stand is put in place with the ingredients inside. The ingredients are simmered until they become translucent and soft. Then, they are transferred to the wooden or metal stir fry drum. This takes about thirty minutes.
In order to give your stir fried recipes a more intense, smoky flavor, use a little bit of olive oil, sesame oil, corn oil or clarified butter. Be sure to always use a high heat to make sure that all of the oils are heated to the proper level of burning. Also, be sure to stir your ingredients well so that the flavors don’t burn out too quickly. Another great way to add more of the wonderful aroma of the season is to use a soy or turmeric paste. This paste goes great mixed with your marinades or even mixed directly into your oil at room temperature. Add this simple seasoning and you’ll be amazed at the difference in taste of the foods you make with this simple cooking technique.
So, if you’re looking for a fast, easy, healthy way to cook your favorite vegetables or crackers, you should definitely consider incorporating stir frying into your kitchen routine. You can create some fabulous meals in thirty minutes or less. Enjoy! !